Ashley McEgan
London Marathon Runner
Hi, I’m Ashley, I’m 32 and from Liverpool.
My London Marathon journey actually started while standing on the sidelines. Earlier this year, I went to support my best friend, Gab, as she ran the London Marathon for Brathay Trust. Watching thousands of runners take on such an incredible challenge was inspiring. The atmosphere, the determination, the sense of achievement at the finish line, it was amazing to be a part of even as a spectator.
During the celebrations afterwards I turned to Gab and said, “We’re doing this together next year!”
I’ve completed a couple of half marathons and Gab and I regularly take on HYROX competitions together, so running has become something we genuinely enjoy. That said, a marathon is a completely different challenge and by far the biggest one I have taken on.
One of the reasons I wanted to run for Brathay is because I feel smaller charities often don’t get the same visibility or support as some of the larger organisations. While watching the marathon, I noticed many of the bigger charities had a huge presence, which made me want to use this opportunity to shine a light on a charity that is doing incredible work but needs more support to reach even more young people.
The work Brathay does really resonates with me. Through family members and friends, I’ve seen first-hand how difficult life can be for children and young people today. Bullying doesn’t stop when the school bell rings anymore. With social media and online platforms, it can follow young people 24 hours a day. The impact that has on confidence, self-esteem and mental wellbeing can be huge.
Brathay provides counselling and support to help young people rebuild their confidence, overcome challenges and believe in themselves again. Reading the stories of the young people they’ve helped, especially those facing difficult family circumstances, really put into perspective just how fortunate I was growing up. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I received as a child, and I know not everyone gets the same start in life.
If taking on something I love, running, can help Brathay continue to provide those opportunities and support more young people to build brighter futures, then every mile will be worth it.
Experience
- 2024 Liverpool Half Marathon
- 2025 Hyrox Cardiff
- 2025 Hyrox Madrid
- 2026 Hyrox Katowice
- 2026 Hyrox Cardiff
- 2026 Great Manchester Run (Half Marathon)